By: Lifestyle DeskNew Delhi | November 17, 2025 05:25 PM IST 4 min readStaying fit often comes with discipline, gym routines, and clean eating. But some people seem to have it easier than others, and that’s precisely what leaves Palak Tiwari puzzled about her mother’s fitness. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEOIn a recent conversation with Mashable India, Palak spoke about how surprised even her mother, actor Shweta Tiwari, is when praised for her health and physique. “My mom, you know, everybody says this and sabse zyada iss statement se confused meri maa hi hoti hai, kyuki na toh meri mummy regularly gym jaati hai, na toh meri mummy regularly kuch bhi karti hai. Apna dhyaan rakhne ke liye meri mummy kuch bhi nahi karti. Which is why, she’s like, ‘Kyaa bolte rehte hain log, mujhe samajh mein nahi aata (The person most confused by this statement is my mom, because she neither goes to the gym regularly nor does anything consistently. She doesn’t do anything to take care of herself. That’s why she’s like, ‘I don’t understand why people keep saying this’). But I get it.”In contrast, she admitted, “Main toh jaati hu, main mummy jitni blessed nahi hu (I go to the gym, I am not as blessed as my mom). I work out at least five days a week. I do cardio, my entire personality is that I do cardio as I started doing it recently.”Why do some people seem to stay fit without much effort, while others need consistent workouts and planning to achieve similar results?Dr Jagadish Hiremath, Public Health Intellectual, tells indianexpress.com, “Yes, genetics can absolutely influence body composition and metabolism, which may give some individuals a naturally lean or toned appearance even without a structured workout routine. Factors such as how the body stores fat, muscle fibre distribution, basal metabolic rate, and even hormone regulation are influenced by inherited traits.”However, he asserts that while genetics may determine how someone looks on the outside, “they do not necessarily reflect a person’s internal health.” Cardiovascular fitness, bone density, and muscular strength still benefit greatly from physical activity, regardless of outward appearance.Hidden lifestyle habits that could explain why someone appears fit without a gym routineAccording to Dr Hiremath, many naturally fit people often maintain consistent daily routines that promote overall wellness, even if they do not spend time at the gym. “Regular movement throughout the day, such as walking, taking stairs, household chores, or playing with children, contributes to a more active lifestyle without feeling like formal exercise,” notes the doctor. In addition, he states, lower stress levels and adequate sleep play important roles in maintaining a healthy body. High stress can contribute to hormonal imbalances, particularly cortisol, which may affect weight and energy levels. Story continues below this ad“Eating patterns also make a significant difference. Individuals who eat balanced meals, consume more whole foods, and practice mindful eating may maintain a healthier weight more easily. These habits often go unnoticed because they are seamlessly built into daily life,” informs the expert. Sustainable fitnessDr Hiremath explains that the key for individuals who feel they have to work harder to maintain their fitness is to adopt a consistent and enjoyable routine. Sustainable fitness is not about intensity alone but about long-term adherence. Incorporating moderate-intensity workouts three to five times a week, such as brisk walking, yoga, cycling, or strength training, can be highly effective when paired with proper rest and nutrition. For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd